Top Thanksgiving-Themed TV Episodes to Feast On
Top Thanksgiving-Themed TV Episodes to Feast On
If you’re in for a TV marathon over the weekend, here are a few of our Thanksgiving-themed episodes to watch.
It’s that time of year again: Thanksgiving! 🦃 While we’re all about spending quality time with family and friends, and indulging in delicious food, there’s nothing quite like curling up on the couch and watching nostalgic Thanksgiving TV episodes. If you’re in for a TV marathon over the holiday weekend, here are a few of our Thanksgiving-themed favorites:
Friends
“The One with the Thanksgiving Flashbacks,” Season 5, Episode 8
In this episode of Friends, the group recalls their worst Thanksgiving celebrations. It’s a classic Thanksgiving episode packed with nostalgia and laughs. From Chandler losing his toe to Joey getting stuck in a turkey, the chaos unfolds in true Friends fashion. This episode perfectly reminds us that Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be picture-perfect—sometimes, the most chaotic moments are the most memorable.
Stream on: Max
Gossip Girl
“The Treasure of Serena Madre,” Season 3, Episode 11
I think the “Whatcha Say” dinner scene is the most dramatic moment in any Thanksgiving TV episode, and of course, it’s from Gossip Girl. In this episode, everything comes to a head at the dinner table, with no one holding back their drama, secrets, or resentments. This one is a must-watch if you’re looking for a Thanksgiving episode filled with over-the-top drama. You’ll also envision this scene whenever you hear “Whatcha Say” by Jason Derulo.
Modern Family
“Three Turkeys,” Season 6, Episode 8
Any holiday-themed episode of Modern Family is guaranteed to deliver plenty of familial chaos and humor, perfectly capturing the holiday season. In this episode, Phil is determined to cook the perfect Thanksgiving turkey and enlists Luke as his sous chef. However, their lack of kitchen expertise prompts Claire to prepare a backup turkey secretly. The episode thrives on secrets, but despite all the madness, the family ultimately comes together for a makeshift Thanksgiving dinner.
Stream on: Hulu
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
“Mr. Santiago,” Season 4, Episode 7
This episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine introduces us to Amy’s dad as Jake desperately tries to impress him, showcasing the hilarious awkwardness and heartwarming moments the show is known for. Jake and Amy must abandon Thanksgiving dinner to investigate a case Mr. Santiago couldn’t solve 20 years ago, leaving Charles in charge of the turkey. Naturally, things go hilariously wrong, but they all come together to enjoy the holiday.
Stream on: Netflix
New Girl
“Thanksgiving,” Season 1, Episode 6
New Girl is a show that always makes me laugh, and this Thanksgiving episode is no exception. It marks the first Thanksgiving that Jess celebrates with her roommates, who usually observe “Dudesgiving,” which involves sitting on the couch, watching football, and Black Friday shopping. In typical Jess fashion, she buys a frozen turkey at the last minute and frantically tries to defrost it in time for dinner—leading her to put it in the dryer, which ultimately catches fire. If you think that’s the most chaotic thing to happen in the episode, think again—the chaos of New Girl is genuinely endless.
Stream on: Hulu
How I Met Your Mother
“Slapsgiving,” Season 3, Episode 9
In Marshall and Lily’s first Thanksgiving as a married couple, they invite the whole group over to celebrate. This episode revolves around the slap bet between Marshall and Barney, established in Season 2. Marshall has the right to slap Barney five times, with Thanksgiving as the deadline for the third slap. This leaves Barney in fear and suspense as he awaits the slap. It’s a classic episode for any How I Met Your Mother fan or anyone who enjoys slapstick comedy and shenanigans.
Stream on: Netflix
Gilmore Girls
“A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving,” Season 3, Episode 9
Gilmore Girls is a quintessential show for fall. In this episode, Lorelai and Rory find themselves committed to four Thanksgiving dinners, setting the stage for a whirlwind of encounters as they navigate the busy day. Similarly to the Gossip Girl episode, drama erupts at the dinner table with Emily and Richard when Rory reveals her unexpected college decision. The quirky, heartwarming vibes of Gilmore Girls make it an unforgettable addition to your Thanksgiving TV binge.
Stream on: Netflix
Bob’s Burgers
“Turkey in a Can,” Season 4, Episode 5
If you’re looking for a Thanksgiving episode that’s both hilarious and bizarre, look no further than this episode of Bob’s Burgers. Bob is determined to cook the perfect Thanksgiving turkey, but he finds it mysteriously in the toilet every morning. As Bob becomes increasingly obsessed with solving this turkey mystery, the Belcher family’s unique brand of chaos adds to the fun. With a surprising twist ending and a heartwarming dose of family bonding, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves Bob’s Burgers or needs a good laugh this Thanksgiving.
Stream on: Hulu
I hope this collection of Thanksgiving episodes bring lots of laughter, warmth, and maybe a bit of relatable chaos to your holiday season. Have a happy Thanksgiving, Terriers, and happy viewing!
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